The story begins with describing Arthur Pepper's strictly regimented life after his wife passes. After a year has passed, he begins clearing out her clothes from the closet, he finds a charm bracelet hidden in one of her boots. He decides to unravel it's mysteries. While this begins as a quest to find out about his wife's past, Mr. Pepper comes to realizations about his present life. It becomes a journey of self-discovery and the lesson you're never too old for a second chance. It's a beautifully written novel.